STUDY QUESTIONS FOR ROMEO AND JULIET The line numbers in the following questions may vary according to the publication. Use the question to determine the appropriate line in question.
PROLOGUE
Who speaks the Prologue? The Chorus
What is the purpose of the Prologue? To give a little background of the story, and to introduce it, revealing the main plot.
In what poetic form is this Prologue? Sonnet
4. Highlight lines 5 and 6. Explain the importance of these two lines. "From forth the fatal loins of these two foes, A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life,..." These lines reveal the main conflict in the story, and with fate, this rivalry causes a pair of lovers to lose their lives.
5.Why does Shakespeare tell us how the story is going to end? To set the mood, and tone for the audience. When the audience knows that the two main characters will die before-hand, they will try to wish that they don't die in the story, but they know that it is going to happen.
6. What themes are established in the Prologue? The themes "Tragedy", and "Hatred" are established with the prologue because it only describes bad things that happen in the story such as the two main characters die, and the families of Romeo, and Juliet hate each other. The prologue also establishes these themes because it uses harsh words such as fatal, fearful, blood, grudge, rage, and strife.
ACT 1 SCENE 1
1. How does Shakespeare start the play so that he gains the attention of the “groundlings?”
Shakespeare starts the play by starting it with smaller characters, such as other groundlings. In Romeo & Juliet, Sampson, and Gregory start the play, even though they are poor people, and not significant characters.
2. Highlight lines 58-59. Our first introduction to Benvolio comes when he says these words. What do they reveal about his character? "I do but keep the peace. Put up thy sword, Or manage it to part these men with me" These lines reveal that Benvolio is a man of peace, and wants to keep it, not wanting anyone to be in conflict with each other, and living in harmony.
3. Highlight lines 64-65. Our first impression of Tybalt occurs in these lines. What do we learn about his character? "What, art thou drawn among these heartless hinds? Turn thee Benvolio! Look upon thy death." From these lines, we know that Tybalt is a calm guy because he does nothing but tell Benvolio to not draw attention to the servants.
4. Highlight lines 90-91. What is the tone of the Prince’s speech? In these lines he makes a new decree. What is it, and why is it important? "If ever you disturb our streets again, Your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace." The tone of the Prince's speech is very terrifying because he is giving someone a warning to not walk the streets again, and if he does then he will die.
5. When we first see Romeo he shows all the signs of a Petrarchan Lover—someone who is in love with the idea of being in love. How does Romeo act (lines 125-136)? He acts very demandingly because he is not yet mature enough, and does not understand what love really is in this Scene.
6. When describing his feelings to Benvolio, Romeo uses Oxymorons—pairs of contradictory words in lines 170-177 and 184-188. Why does he speak in contradictions and paradoxes?
This was because he wants to give a big impression, and idea to Benvolio of what he truly feels is right.
7. We then learn that Romeo is suffering from Unrequited Love—He loves someone who does not love him back. What suggestion does Benvolio make to Romeo to help him get over is unrequited love for Rosaline (lines 221-223)?
To examine other beauties, meaning see other women.
ACT 1 SCENE 2
1. In this scene Lord Capulet talks to Paris about marrying his daughter Juliet. What two reasons does he give for not wanting Juliet to marry at this time (lines 8-14)?
Capulet says that Juliet is not yet 14, and is too young to marry, and that Juliet was Capulet's last hope, and was his heir.
2. Highlight line 16-19. On what condition will Lord Capulet agree to Juliet’s marriage with Paris? "My will to her consent is but a part. And she agree, within her scope of choice Lies my consent is but a part." Lord Capulet wants Juliet to be happy, and be free of choosing her husband.
3. What does this reveal about Lord Capulet’s love for his daughter?
This reveals that Lord Capulet cares for her daughter very much because he gave her the choice of marriage when he didn't have to.
4. From the servant who cannot read we learn that Rosaline, with whom Romeo believes he is in love, will be at the Capulet party. Why does this excite Benvolio? What is his plan (lines 84-89)?
Romeo can compare the face of Rosaline with others to find out that Rosaline isn't that great.
5. Highlight lines 86-89. Explain Benvolio’s analogy: "At this same ancient fiest of Capulet's Sups the fair Rosaline whom thou so loves, With all the admired beautiies of Verona. Go thither, and with unattainted eye..." Benvolio wants Romeo to go to the feast to compare the faces of other women to Rosaline.
6. Why does Romeo agree to go to the party (lines 102-103)?
He agrees to go to the party because he will believe he will have a great time.
7. What coincidence takes place in this scene? Explain what theme is being developed.
The theme fate is being developed because just going to the party, and meeting Juliet alone is sealing his fate.
ACT 1 SCENE 3
In this scene Lady Capulet is informing Juliet and her nurse of Count Paris’ proposal of marriage.
1. What is the nurse’s relationship with Juliet?
The nurse is like the mother of Juliet, taking care of her since Juliet was very small, and breast feeding her.
2. How would you describe the nurse’s personality?
The nurse has a kind personality because she likes to have fun and really what happened in Juliet's past and laughing.
3. Highlight lines 62-63. What is the nurse’s one wish for Juliet and why? "Peace, I have done. God mark thee to his grace, Thou wast the prettiest babe that evr i nursed." The nurse wants Juliet to marry in the future because she is not yet 14.
4. When Lady Capulet asks Juliet how she feels about being married, what is Juliet’s answer (line 67), and what does it reveal about her character?
Juliet was honored about it but she said she wasn't ready. This line reveals that Juliet is very calm because she shows patience by waiting.
5. The nurse and Lady Capulet are both excited and pleased by Paris’ proposal but for different reasons.
The nurse says Paris is “a man of wax” and at the end of the scene encourages Juliet to “Go, girl, seek happy nights to happy days.” What does the nurse see in Paris, and what does it reveal about her attitude toward love and marriage?
The nurse believes that Paris is the perfect man for Juliet, and she is very affectionate towards love and marriage.
6. Lady Capulet’s lines 82-95 compose a conceit. A conceit is an extended,exaggerated comparison or metaphor between two unlike things—in this case, between Paris and a book that needs to be bound. What does Lady Capulet see in Paris that would make him a good match for Juliet? What is Lady Capulet’s attitude toward love and marriage?
Lady Capulet believes that Paris would make a good match for Juliet because she believes they complete each other. Lady Capulet is also very affectionate towards love and marriage.
7. Highlight lines 98-100. Explain Juliet’s answer to her mother when asked if she can love Paris. What does it reveal about her knowledge of being in love? What is her attitude toward love and marriage? "I'll look to like, if looking liking move, But no more deep will I endart mine eye Than your consent gives strength to make it fly." These lines show that Juliet only wants to be with someone that she loves and she will only love, and marry someone that she loves.
ACT 1 SCENE 4
1. Highlight lines 106-111. Why does Romeo feel uneasy about going to the party? What dream-like premonition has he had? "And more inconstant than the wind, who woos Even now the frozen boson of the North And, being angered, puffs away from thence, Turning his side to the dew-dropping South." Romeo feels uneasy about going to the party because this could lead to his fate of death.
2. Comment on this speech in terms of the Elizabethan attitude toward the stars and astrology.
The stars in "star-crossed" seems to hold fate, and a mere human such as Romeo has to go against it.
3. What decision does Romeo make in lines 112-113, and what is the thematic importance of this decision?
Romeo decides to go forward, ignoring the consequences.
ACT 1 SCENE 5
1. We learn from Romeo’s soliloquy(a speech delivered while the speaker is alone, calculated to inform the audience of what is passing in the character’s mind)that he is struck by love at first sight when he sees Juliet at the party. Paraphrase Rome’s speech (lines 43-53). To what does he compare Juliet?
Romeo says that Juliet teaches the torches to burn bright, meaning that she is the one that brings light, and gives power. Romeo compares Juliet to a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear, meaning that Juliet is beautiful, and loving just like a rich jewel, and shining with beauty, as proven in the next lines when Romeo says, "Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear"
2. How does this speech about his love for Juliet compare to his speeches about being in love with Rosaline?
Romeo says that Juliet was the one who made him feel love, but Rosalyn made him feel lust.
3. Tybalt recognizes Romeo’s voice and tries to start a fight. What two reasons does Lord Capulet give for stopping him (lines 65-69)?
Capulet tells Tybalt that Romeo is a portly gentlemen, and does not want to be disrespectful to Romeo in his own house.
4. Highlight lines 90-91. What threat does Tybalt make as he agrees to withdraw? "I will withdraw, but this intrusion shall, Now seeming sweet, convert to bitterest gall."
Tybalt threatens that everything will end in a horrible way, starting very well, but ending up bad, just like when Romeo & Juliet first meet, and when they discover each others identities.
5. In lines 2-05 Romeo and Juliet speak to each other. Their lines form a sonnet. Paraphrase the lines of the sonnet.
They were flirting with each other, creating excuses to kiss each other. Romeo started off kissing Juliet's hand at first, but it soon developed to the kissing of their lips. 6.Dramatic Irony is when the audience knows something the characters do not.What is ironic about Juliet’s line 134?
Juliet doesn't know Romeo"s identity, but the audience knows that Romeo is the son of the Montagues, the the rival family of Juliet's family, the Capulets.
Act 1 Podcast
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The Prince's soliloquy warning the citizens not to fight
The opening banter and insults between the young Montague and Capulet servants.
The nurses soliloquy in scene 3
Marcutio's Queen Mab soliloquy in scene 4
Romeo and Juliet's first encounter in scene 5
ACT 2 SCENE 2
1. Juliet is on the balcony outside her bedroom but cannot hear the words that Romeo says to himself as he looks at her from the hiding place below. Answer the following questions about lines 2-25:
a. Romeo repeats the light and dark images he introduced when he saw Juliet for the first time. Why does Romeo compare Juliet to the sun?
Romeo compares Juliet to the sun because she brings him light with her beauty, and Romeo is saying that she is the source of everything, just like the Sun is at the center of the universe.
b. Why does he want the sun to kill the envious moon?
Romeo wants the sun to kill the envious moon because the sun as he described was Juliet, but the envious moon was Rosaline. You know this because when the sun arises, all thoughts of the moon (Rosaline) would be gone, and the light will come with Juliet.
c. Why is the moon envious?
The moon was envious because it did not like Romeo, and this took an attack on Romeo's heart earlier in the play before he met Juliet since he was still in love with Rosaline at that time.
d. Why does he compare Juliet’s eyes to the stars?
Romeo compares Juliet's eyes to the stars because the stars are something that are really bright, and symbolize fate, and the fate that Romeo, and Juliet should be together. This also describes again that Juliet has a lot of beauty, and could replace the brightest stars in the night sky.
e. Why is this comparison to stars another example of foreshadowing?
This is another example of foreshadowing because it means that they are now stuck with each others with the same fate.
2. Highlight lines 33-36. Juliet is still unaware that Romeo is nearby. Paraphrase these lines. "Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou wilt not, be sworn my love And I'll no longer be a Capulet."
These lines means that Juliet will ask Romeo to deny his father, and his family name, but if he does not and still loves Juliet, then she will do the same.
3. Highlight lines 43-44. Paraphrase lines 38-49. What is Juliet’s attitude toward the feud that has separated the two families? "'Tis but thy name that is my enemy;--
Thou art thyself, though not a Montague.
What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot,
Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part
Belonging to a man. O, be some other name!
What's in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet;
So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd,
Retain that dear perfection which he owes
Without that title:--Romeo, doff thy name;
And for that name, which is no part of thee,
Take all myself."
Juliet's attitude toward the feud that has separated the two families was hateful because she described the family names to be just a name, and that it is not even a part of the human body.
4. After Juliet asks some pertinent questions (lines 58-84), she realizes that Romeo has overheard her intimate thoughts about him. How does her attitude change in lines 85-105? What is she worried about?
Her attitude changes in the lines 85-105 because she gets all defensive because Romeo heard her thoughts, and Juliet is now worried about Romeo not truly loving her, but make her become a Montague from what he overheard.
5. Why does Juliet object to Romeo’s swearing on the moon (lines 109-111)?
Juliet objects Romeo swearing on the moon because it changes every month through its movement in space such as it's orbit and rotation.
6. Juliet speaks of her fears in lines 116-119. Explain.
Juliet fears that their families might find out about their relationship, and punish them, and not letting them see each other creating a greater family feud.
7. Paraphrase lines 142-148. "Three words, dear Romeo, and good night indeed.
If that thy bent of love be honourable,
Thy purpose marriage, send me word to-morrow,
By one that I'll procure to come to thee,
Where and what time thou wilt perform the rite;
And all my fortunes at thy foot I'll lay
And follow thee, my lord, throughout the world."
Juliet tells Romeo to see her tomorrow if he plans on getting married, and if he does then Juliet will accept.
ACT 2 SCENE 3
1. Friar Laurence is introduced in a lengthy soliloquy in which he philosophies about nature and about mankind. Paraphrase his speech (lines 7-30). The grey-ey'd morn smiles on the frowning night,
Chequering the eastern clouds with streaks of light;
And flecked darkness like a drunkard reels
From forth day's path and Titan's fiery wheels:
Non, ere the sun advance his burning eye,
The day to cheer and night's dank dew to dry,
I must up-fill this osier cage of ours
With baleful weeds and precious-juiced flowers.
The earth, that's nature's mother, is her tomb;
What is her burying gave, that is her womb:
And from her womb children of divers kind
We sucking on her natural bosom find;
Many for many virtues excellent,
None but for some, and yet all different.
O, mickle is the powerful grace that lies
In plants, herbs, stones, and their true qualities:
For naught so vile that on the earth doth live
But to the earth some special good doth give;
Nor aught so good but, strain'd from that fair use,
Revolts from true birth, stumbling on abuse:
Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied;
And vice sometimes by action dignified.
Within the infant rind of this small flower
Poison hath residence, and medicine power:
For this, being smelt, with that part cheers each part;
Being tasted, slays all senses with the heart.
Two such opposed kings encamp them still
In man as well as herbs,--grace and rude will;
And where the worser is predominant,
Full soon the canker death eats up that plant.
"The wedding between these two will end the feud
The womb will be healed, and all will be better.
There will be a brand new start.
The past will be forgotten"
2. What does Romeo tell Friar Laurence, and what does he want from the Friar (lines 43-64)?
Romeo tells Friar that he is no longer in love with Rosaline, but now he is in love with Juliet, a Capulet. Romeo wants Friar to marry him and Juliet.
3. What is Friar Laurence’s reaction to hearing of Romeo’s new love (lines 65-80)?
Friars was shocked when he heard this and was reluctant, but this changed when he realized that the marriage could end the family feud.
4. Highlight lines 89-92. What reason does Friar Laurence give for agreeing to marry Romeo and Juliet?
Friar's reason for agreeing to the marriage was because he thinks that the marriage could end the hatred between the two families.
ACT 2 SCENE 4
1. This scene shows us more of the nurse’s character as she trades quips and puns with Mercutio. What malapropisms (an inappropriateness of speech resulting from the use of one word for another which resembles it) does the nurse use (line 115)?
The nurse says confidence, but she really means conference.
2. What message does Romeo urge the nurse to give to Juliet (lines 163-166)?
Romeo urges the nurse to tell Juliet to shrive with him that afternoon, and that they will get married after in Friar's cell.
ACT 2 SCENE 5
Juliet is very impatient to hear news from Romeo (lines 1-17). What images does she use in her soliloquy to express this?
Juliet expresses her love by describing the swiftness of cupids wings, and the time it is taking, which is seeming long, talking about the suns beans driving back the shadows.
2. The nurse knows Juliet is impatient, but she keeps putting her off. Why does the nurse do this?
The nurse does this because she just wanted to have a little fun with Juliet, knowing how anxious she is.
3. Why does the Nurse agree to help Juliet marry Romeo?
The nurse agrees to help Juliet because she knows that Romeo is very handsome, and athletic, and he is also a gentlemen.
Create a podcast for Act 2 using Garage Band based on one of the following options:
Introduce your topic, use music and sound effects to create mood and atmosphere. Save as iTunes mp3 and upload to your wiki.
1. Paraphrase then Podcast the "Balcony Scene" between Romeo and Juliet
2. Friar Laurence is introduced in a lengthy soliloquy in which he philosophies about nature and about mankind. Paraphrase and Podcast his speech
3. This scene shows us more of the nurse’s character as she trades quips and puns with Mercutio. Paraphrase and Podcast.
ACT 3 SCENE 1
1. Why do you think Tybalt approaches Mercutio and Benvolio and wants a “word” with one of them (line 36)?
I think Tybalt wants a word with them because he knows they are good friends of Romeo, so he does not like them, and wants to get Romeo mad so he would fight him.
2. Mercutio tries to provoke Tybalt to fight (lines 37-38). Why doesn’t Tybalt want to fight him (line 53)?
Tybalt doesn't want to fight him because he is not a Montague, so he had no meaning of fighting him.
3. After Tybalt insults Romeo, Romeo responds with lines 59-62. Explain his lines. What is the “reason” Romeo has for ignoring the insult?
Romeo ignored his insults because he does not want to trouble a Capulet, and knowing that the Capulet's won't accept him, or his family after this.
4. Highlight lines 65-69. Explain the meaning of the lines and the dramatic irony of the situation. "I do protest I never injured thee,
But love thee better than thou canst devise
Till thou shalt know the reason of my love.
And so, good Capulet, which name I tender
As dearly as my own, be satisfied."
This was dramatic irony because Romeo actually did injure Tybalt mentally because Romeo was going to marry his cousin, Juliet, and Tybalt already had hatred for Romeo since the party.
5. Why does Romeo’s answer to Tybalt’s insults upset Mercutio? What does he think Romeo is doing (line 70)?
The insults upset Mercutio because he thought Romeo was giving up but Romeo just didn't want to stir up any trouble.
6. Romeo tries to stop Mercutio and Tybalt from fighting by reasoning with them (lines 82-85). Paraphrase what he says. "Mercutio, if you must fight then fight with your hands.
Please do not fight.
Stop fighting on the streets.
Stop, Tybalt, and Mercutio!"
7. Even when he is dying, Mercutio continues to joke and to make puns. Explain the pun he makes in lines 92-99.
He asked Romeo why he had to be in the way, and now it is because of him that he died by screening him from Tybalt.
8. Highlight lines 102-103. Mercutio repeats the following line (106) three times and then adds the next line. Explain what he means:
“A plague O’ both your houses!
They have made worm’s meat of me.”
The lines mean that Mercutio is cursing both the families because it was their feud that made him die. Next, he says “They have made worm’s meat of me." which is a simile for dying.
9. What does Romeo mean when he says lines 119-120?
He means that he wants Tybalt dead since he killed Mercutio.
10. After Mercutio dies, why does Romeo decide to kill Tybalt instead of accepting Mercutio’s death as an unfortunate accident?
Romeo goes after Tybalt because he is so emotional that Mercutio died, and he is not yet mature enough to take what was happening.
11. Highlight line 132. What does Romeo mean? "O, I am fortune's fool!"
Romeo means that he is a victim to fate. This is related to the Chorus with "star-crossed", also sealing Romeo's fate.
12. Highlight lines 176-177. What reasoning does Lady Capulet use in begging the Prince for vengeance for Tybalt’s death?
Lady Capulet's reason was that Romeo killed Tybalt, so he should be killed.
13. Highlight lines 180-183. What is Lord Montagues’ reasoning in his attempt to persuade the Prince not to kill Romeo for killing Tybalt?
Montague's reason was that Romeo wasn't trying to cause trouble, and it was Tybalt stirring things up, and Romeo was trying to stop the fight between Tybalt, and Mercutio.
14. What is the Prince’s decree, and what are the reasons he gives for making it (lines 182-185)?
The prince's decree was that Romeo is to be exiled. His reason was that Tybalt killed Mercutio, and the Prince feels that Tybalt deserved to die because he killed his cousin.
ACT 3 SCENE 2
1. In lines 37-68 the nurse confuses Juliet as she tells Juliet of the fight. What misconception does Juliet make?
Juliet thought that the nurse was talking about Romeo being dead because the nurse didn't tell her who was dead at this time, and she thought it was Romeo.
2. Highlight line 73. When Juliet receives news of Tybalt’s death, what is her first reaction? "O God! Did Romeo's hand shed Tybalt's blood?"
Her first reaction was not even caring about Tybalt's death, but wondering about Romeo, and if Tybalt's blood was on Romeo's hand.
3. Highlight Juliet’s lines 90-92. When the nurse agrees with Juliet, Juliet has a different reaction to Romeo’s killing of Tybalt. Explain. "Blister'd be thy tongue
For such a wish! he was not born to shame: "
Juliet did not care for Tybalt at all because she knows that he always misbehaves, but Romeo is always so sweet, and loving.
4. How does the scene end?
The scene ended with the nurse telling Juliet that she will find Romeo to comfort her.
ACT 3 SCENE 3
1. Highlight line 12. What is Romeo’s reaction when he learns that he has been banished?
Romeo felt that banishment was far worse then death because he could not be with Juliet.
2. From the beginning of the play, Romeo acts impulsively. In what way is he still impulsive in this scene (lines 102-108)?
Romeo tried to murder himself because he did not want to love without Juliet, but Friar stopped him.
3. Friar Laurence tells Romeo to count his blessings. What are they (line 135-140)?
That Romeo is lucky to be alive when Tybalt tried to kill him, that he found the women of his dreams, and got married, and that his punishment was exile.
4. Explain Friar Laurence’s plan (lines 146-154).
He wanted the nurse to go beg the prince, and gather the friends.
ACT 3 SCENE 5
Questions begin with Lady Capulet’s entrance, line 68.
1. Lady Capulet misunderstands Juliet’s sadness, and Juliet does not want her to know what has happened between Romeo and Juliet. What does Juliet say about Tybalt and Romeo to keep the truth from her mother (lines 67-102)?
Juliet talks a lot of great things about Romeo, like how he is so nice, and kind. Before this, Juliet also pretends to feel sorry for Tybalt.
2. What is Juliet’s response when she is told the news that she is to marry Paris (lines 116-123)? How has she changed since Act 1?
She does not want to marry Paris now, that she loves Romeo, and has already married him. In Act 1, she gave Paris a chance to be her husband if she felt it was right.
3. What is her mother’s reaction to Juliet’s response (line 124 and lines 139-140)?
She dislikes Juliet's decision a lot, and told her to ask her father.
4. Highlight lines 190-194. What is Lord Capulet’s response to Juliet’s refusal to marry Paris? "To answer "I'll not wed, I cannot love,
I am too young, I pray you pardon me!"
But, and you will not wed, you shall not house with me.
Look to it, think on it, I do not use to jest"
Lord Capulet's response refusal to marry Paris was that if she didn't she cannot live in her house, and he will kick her out, and she will have to live on the streets.
5. What does the Nurse advise Juliet to do (lines 212-225)? What is her reasoning?
The nurse advises Juliet to marry Paris because Paris has higher status then Romeo right now, and Paris is a nice, and fair man.
6. After the Nurse leaves and Juliet is alone, what does Juliet decide to do (lines 240-243)?
Juliet decides to go to Friar to find out his remedy, and if she couldn't, then she will die.
Act 3 Podcast
Podcast examples and quotes from Act 3 that illustrate each of the following themes:
- The brutal emotion of love.
- Behaviour controlled by the code of masculine honour
- The danger of acting on impulse
- Destiny and Fate
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ACT IV SCENE 1
1. Why is Friar Lawrence reluctant to marry Paris to Juliet?
Friar is reluctant to marry Paris to Juliet because Friar knows that Juliet does not want to marry Paris, and Friar knows that Paris knows that Juliet does not want to have a wedding this early and Friar does not like that Paris does not care about what Juliet thinks.
2. How does Paris explain the sudden haste of the marriage plans?
Paris tells Friar it has to be in such a sudden haste because his father wanted the marriage faster.
3. What is ironic about the conversation between Juliet and Paris?
Paris explains that he wants the marriage earlier so he can stop her tears, but she would be happier alone.
4. If Friar Lawrence cannot help her, what does Juliet threaten to do?
To stab herself.
5. Why does Friar Lawrence think that Juliet will accept his plan?
Friar thinks that Juliet will accept his plan because she took the potion, and Friar knows that Juliet wants to be with Romeo so she had to take a risk.
6. Describe the friar’s plan for Juliet.
Friars plan was to make Juliet drink a potion that makes her seem dead, and everyone would think that she is dead, so when Juliet wakes up from her coffin she can escape and go to Romeo.
scene ii:
1. What does Juliet say that makes her father happy?
Juliet tells her father that she will marry Paris, and told her father to forgive her sin of disobedience.
2. How does Capulet change the wedding plans? What implications does this have?
Capulet makes the wedding the very next day upon hearing this, and this caused Juliet to go to her room and get ready to use the potion.
scene iii:
1. How does Juliet show her maturity and independence in this scene?
Juliet shows maturity and independence in this scene by not telling her secret to anyone, and when everyone is gone, she will use the potion despite her fears.
2. If the potion does not work, what will Juliet do?
She will stab herself with a dagger if the potion does not work.
3. What are some of the fears Juliet has about the potion?
The fears Juliet had for the potion was that it might not work, and that Friar might've gave her poison.
scene iv:
1. What is happening in this brief scene?
It is early Wednesday and the wedding was being prepared. Capulet hearing that Paris arrived, orders that Juliet be awakened and dressed for the wedding.
scene v:
1. Describe the imagery Shakespeare uses in describing Juliet’s “death.”
Shapespeare describes Juliet as deceased, her blood is settled, she's cold, and her joints are stiff, creating imagery of Juliet's death.
2. What does friar Lawrence say to comfort the Capulet family?
Friar says that Juliet is in a better place among the clouds, free of all the troubles she had.
3. What event are the Capulets preparing for now?
The funeral for Juliet.
ACT 5 SCENE 1
1. What premonition does Romeo have at the beginning of this scene (lines 1-11)?
He dreamt that Juliet saw him dad and she kissed him.
2. What news does Balthasar bring? How does this disrupt the Friar’s plan?
Balthasar tells Romeo that Juliet is dead, and disrupts Friar's plan because since Romeo thinks that Juliet is dead then Romeo can do something bad like kill himself.
3. Highlight line 24. Paraphrase. Why is this a brazen thing to say? "Is it even so? Then I defy you, stars!"
If this is it, then I will deny my fate!
This was a brazen thing to say because he really doesn't deny his fate because what he would do would kill himself.
4. What does Romeo decide to do after he hears Balthasar’s story (lines 34-57)?
Romeo decides to go to Juliet's tomb and drink poison and die with her.
ACT 5 SCENE 2
1. What story does Friar John tell Friar Laurence as explanation as to why he could not deliver the letter to Romeo?
Friar John was cautious of disease, and he thought he had another day since the wedding was extended.
ACT 5 SCENE 3
1. Highlight lines 91-96. What does Romeo notice about Juliet? Explain the dramatic irony. Death that hath sucked the honey of thy breath,
Hath had no power yet upon thy beauty.
Thou art not conquered. Beauty's yet
Is crimson in thy lips and in thy cheeks,
And death's pale flag is not advanced there.
The dramatic irony was that Romeo thinks Juliet is dead but she actually isn't, and Romeo notices that Juliet still has the appearance of a living person.
2. Highlight line 167. What does Juliet realize about the situation? "Poison, I see, hath been his timeless end."
Juliet realizes that Romeo killed himself with poison because he thought that she was dead.
3. Highlight lines 169-170. Explain the lines. "O churl. Drunk all, and left no friendly drop
To help me after? I will kiss thy lips."
When Juliet said these lines, she wanted to die with Romeo as well, and wanted to use Romeo's poison, but he used it all up, so she tried to kiss his lips hoping there was some on it but there was none.
The line numbers in the following questions may vary according to the publication. Use the question to determine the appropriate line in question.
PROLOGUE
- Who speaks the Prologue? The Chorus
- What is the purpose of the Prologue? To give a little background of the story, and to introduce it, revealing the main plot.
- In what poetic form is this Prologue? Sonnet
4. Highlight lines 5 and 6. Explain the importance of these two lines. "From forth the fatal loins of these two foes, A pair of star-crossed lovers take their life,..." These lines reveal the main conflict in the story, and with fate, this rivalry causes a pair of lovers to lose their lives.5.Why does Shakespeare tell us how the story is going to end? To set the mood, and tone for the audience. When the audience knows that the two main characters will die before-hand, they will try to wish that they don't die in the story, but they know that it is going to happen.
6. What themes are established in the Prologue? The themes "Tragedy", and "Hatred" are established with the prologue because it only describes bad things that happen in the story such as the two main characters die, and the families of Romeo, and Juliet hate each other. The prologue also establishes these themes because it uses harsh words such as fatal, fearful, blood, grudge, rage, and strife.
ACT 1 SCENE 1
1. How does Shakespeare start the play so that he gains the attention of the “groundlings?”Shakespeare starts the play by starting it with smaller characters, such as other groundlings. In Romeo & Juliet, Sampson, and Gregory start the play, even though they are poor people, and not significant characters.
2. Highlight lines 58-59. Our first introduction to Benvolio comes when he says these words. What do they reveal about his character?
"I do but keep the peace. Put up thy sword, Or manage it to part these men with me" These lines reveal that Benvolio is a man of peace, and wants to keep it, not wanting anyone to be in conflict with each other, and living in harmony.
3. Highlight lines 64-65. Our first impression of Tybalt occurs in these lines. What do we learn about his character?
"What, art thou drawn among these heartless hinds? Turn thee Benvolio! Look upon thy death." From these lines, we know that Tybalt is a calm guy because he does nothing but tell Benvolio to not draw attention to the servants.
4. Highlight lines 90-91. What is the tone of the Prince’s speech? In these lines he makes a new decree. What is it, and why is it important?
"If ever you disturb our streets again, Your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace." The tone of the Prince's speech is very terrifying because he is giving someone a warning to not walk the streets again, and if he does then he will die.
5. When we first see Romeo he shows all the signs of a Petrarchan Lover—someone who is in love with the idea of being in love. How does Romeo act (lines 125-136)? He acts very demandingly because he is not yet mature enough, and does not understand what love really is in this Scene.
6. When describing his feelings to Benvolio, Romeo uses Oxymorons—pairs of contradictory words in lines 170-177 and 184-188. Why does he speak in contradictions and paradoxes?
This was because he wants to give a big impression, and idea to Benvolio of what he truly feels is right.
7. We then learn that Romeo is suffering from Unrequited Love—He loves someone who does not love him back. What suggestion does Benvolio make to Romeo to help him get over is unrequited love for Rosaline (lines 221-223)?
To examine other beauties, meaning see other women.
ACT 1 SCENE 2
1. In this scene Lord Capulet talks to Paris about marrying his daughter Juliet. What two reasons does he give for not wanting Juliet to marry at this time (lines 8-14)?
Capulet says that Juliet is not yet 14, and is too young to marry, and that Juliet was Capulet's last hope, and was his heir.
2. Highlight line 16-19. On what condition will Lord Capulet agree to Juliet’s marriage with Paris?
"My will to her consent is but a part. And she agree, within her scope of choice Lies my consent is but a part." Lord Capulet wants Juliet to be happy, and be free of choosing her husband.
3. What does this reveal about Lord Capulet’s love for his daughter?
This reveals that Lord Capulet cares for her daughter very much because he gave her the choice of marriage when he didn't have to.
4. From the servant who cannot read we learn that Rosaline, with whom Romeo believes he is in love, will be at the Capulet party. Why does this excite Benvolio? What is his plan (lines 84-89)?
Romeo can compare the face of Rosaline with others to find out that Rosaline isn't that great.
5. Highlight lines 86-89. Explain Benvolio’s analogy:
"At this same ancient fiest of Capulet's Sups the fair Rosaline whom thou so loves, With all the admired beautiies of Verona. Go thither, and with unattainted eye..." Benvolio wants Romeo to go to the feast to compare the faces of other women to Rosaline.
6. Why does Romeo agree to go to the party (lines 102-103)?
He agrees to go to the party because he will believe he will have a great time.
7. What coincidence takes place in this scene? Explain what theme is being developed.
The theme fate is being developed because just going to the party, and meeting Juliet alone is sealing his fate.
ACT 1 SCENE 3
In this scene Lady Capulet is informing Juliet and her nurse of Count Paris’ proposal of marriage.1. What is the nurse’s relationship with Juliet?
The nurse is like the mother of Juliet, taking care of her since Juliet was very small, and breast feeding her.
2. How would you describe the nurse’s personality?
The nurse has a kind personality because she likes to have fun and really what happened in Juliet's past and laughing.
3. Highlight lines 62-63. What is the nurse’s one wish for Juliet and why?
"Peace, I have done. God mark thee to his grace, Thou wast the prettiest babe that evr i nursed." The nurse wants Juliet to marry in the future because she is not yet 14.
4. When Lady Capulet asks Juliet how she feels about being married, what is Juliet’s answer (line 67), and what does it reveal about her character?
Juliet was honored about it but she said she wasn't ready. This line reveals that Juliet is very calm because she shows patience by waiting.
5. The nurse and Lady Capulet are both excited and pleased by Paris’ proposal but for different reasons.
The nurse says Paris is “a man of wax” and at the end of the scene encourages Juliet to “Go, girl, seek happy nights to happy days.” What does the nurse see in Paris, and what does it reveal about her attitude toward love and marriage?
The nurse believes that Paris is the perfect man for Juliet, and she is very affectionate towards love and marriage.
6. Lady Capulet’s lines 82-95 compose a conceit. A conceit is an extended, exaggerated comparison or metaphor between two unlike things—in this case, between Paris and a book that needs to be bound. What does Lady Capulet see in Paris that would make him a good match for Juliet? What is Lady Capulet’s attitude toward love and marriage?
Lady Capulet believes that Paris would make a good match for Juliet because she believes they complete each other. Lady Capulet is also very affectionate towards love and marriage.
7. Highlight lines 98-100. Explain Juliet’s answer to her mother when asked if she can love Paris. What does it reveal about her knowledge of being in love? What is her attitude toward love and marriage?
"I'll look to like, if looking liking move, But no more deep will I endart mine eye Than your consent gives strength to make it fly." These lines show that Juliet only wants to be with someone that she loves and she will only love, and marry someone that she loves.
ACT 1 SCENE 4
1. Highlight lines 106-111. Why does Romeo feel uneasy about going to the party? What dream-like premonition has he had?
"And more inconstant than the wind, who woos Even now the frozen boson of the North And, being angered, puffs away from thence, Turning his side to the dew-dropping South." Romeo feels uneasy about going to the party because this could lead to his fate of death.
2. Comment on this speech in terms of the Elizabethan attitude toward the stars and astrology.
The stars in "star-crossed" seems to hold fate, and a mere human such as Romeo has to go against it.
3. What decision does Romeo make in lines 112-113, and what is the thematic importance of this decision?
Romeo decides to go forward, ignoring the consequences.
ACT 1 SCENE 5
1. We learn from Romeo’s soliloquy (a speech delivered while the speaker is alone, calculated to inform the audience of what is passing in the character’s mind) that he is struck by love at first sight when he sees Juliet at the party. Paraphrase Rome’s speech (lines 43-53). To what does he compare Juliet?
Romeo says that Juliet teaches the torches to burn bright, meaning that she is the one that brings light, and gives power. Romeo compares Juliet to a rich jewel in an Ethiop's ear, meaning that Juliet is beautiful, and loving just like a rich jewel, and shining with beauty, as proven in the next lines when Romeo says, "Beauty too rich for use, for earth too dear"
2. How does this speech about his love for Juliet compare to his speeches about being in love with Rosaline?
Romeo says that Juliet was the one who made him feel love, but Rosalyn made him feel lust.
3. Tybalt recognizes Romeo’s voice and tries to start a fight. What two reasons does Lord Capulet give for stopping him (lines 65-69)?
Capulet tells Tybalt that Romeo is a portly gentlemen, and does not want to be disrespectful to Romeo in his own house.
4. Highlight lines 90-91. What threat does Tybalt make as he agrees to withdraw?
"I will withdraw, but this intrusion shall, Now seeming sweet, convert to bitterest gall."
Tybalt threatens that everything will end in a horrible way, starting very well, but ending up bad, just like when Romeo & Juliet first meet, and when they discover each others identities.
5. In lines 2-05 Romeo and Juliet speak to each other. Their lines form a sonnet. Paraphrase the lines of the sonnet.
They were flirting with each other, creating excuses to kiss each other. Romeo started off kissing Juliet's hand at first, but it soon developed to the kissing of their lips.
6. Dramatic Irony is when the audience knows something the characters do not. What is ironic about Juliet’s line 134?
Juliet doesn't know Romeo"s identity, but the audience knows that Romeo is the son of the Montagues, the the rival family of Juliet's family, the Capulets.
Act 1 Podcast
Create a podcast for Act 1 using Garage Band based on one of the following options:
Introduce your topic, use music and sound effects to create mood and atmosphere. Save as iTunes mp3 and upload to your wiki.
The Prince's soliloquy warning the citizens not to fight
The opening banter and insults between the young Montague and Capulet servants.
The nurses soliloquy in scene 3
Marcutio's Queen Mab soliloquy in scene 4
Romeo and Juliet's first encounter in scene 5
ACT 2 SCENE 2
1. Juliet is on the balcony outside her bedroom but cannot hear the words that Romeo says to himself as he looks at her from the hiding place below. Answer the following questions about lines 2-25:
a. Romeo repeats the light and dark images he introduced when he saw Juliet for the first time. Why does Romeo compare Juliet to the sun?
Romeo compares Juliet to the sun because she brings him light with her beauty, and Romeo is saying that she is the source of everything, just like the Sun is at the center of the universe.
b. Why does he want the sun to kill the envious moon?
Romeo wants the sun to kill the envious moon because the sun as he described was Juliet, but the envious moon was Rosaline. You know this because when the sun arises, all thoughts of the moon (Rosaline) would be gone, and the light will come with Juliet.
c. Why is the moon envious?
The moon was envious because it did not like Romeo, and this took an attack on Romeo's heart earlier in the play before he met Juliet since he was still in love with Rosaline at that time.
d. Why does he compare Juliet’s eyes to the stars?
Romeo compares Juliet's eyes to the stars because the stars are something that are really bright, and symbolize fate, and the fate that Romeo, and Juliet should be together. This also describes again that Juliet has a lot of beauty, and could replace the brightest stars in the night sky.
e. Why is this comparison to stars another example of foreshadowing?
This is another example of foreshadowing because it means that they are now stuck with each others with the same fate.
2. Highlight lines 33-36. Juliet is still unaware that Romeo is nearby. Paraphrase these lines.
"Deny thy father and refuse thy name. Or, if thou wilt not, be sworn my love And I'll no longer be a Capulet."
These lines means that Juliet will ask Romeo to deny his father, and his family name, but if he does not and still loves Juliet, then she will do the same.
3. Highlight lines 43-44. Paraphrase lines 38-49. What is Juliet’s attitude toward the feud that has separated the two families?
"'Tis but thy name that is my enemy;--
Thou art thyself, though not a Montague.
What's Montague? It is nor hand, nor foot,
Nor arm, nor face, nor any other part
Belonging to a man. O, be some other name!
What's in a name? that which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet;
So Romeo would, were he not Romeo call'd,
Retain that dear perfection which he owes
Without that title:--Romeo, doff thy name;
And for that name, which is no part of thee,
Take all myself."
Juliet's attitude toward the feud that has separated the two families was hateful because she described the family names to be just a name, and that it is not even a part of the human body.
4. After Juliet asks some pertinent questions (lines 58-84), she realizes that Romeo has overheard her intimate thoughts about him. How does her attitude change in lines 85-105? What is she worried about?
Her attitude changes in the lines 85-105 because she gets all defensive because Romeo heard her thoughts, and Juliet is now worried about Romeo not truly loving her, but make her become a Montague from what he overheard.
5. Why does Juliet object to Romeo’s swearing on the moon (lines 109-111)?
Juliet objects Romeo swearing on the moon because it changes every month through its movement in space such as it's orbit and rotation.
6. Juliet speaks of her fears in lines 116-119. Explain.
Juliet fears that their families might find out about their relationship, and punish them, and not letting them see each other creating a greater family feud.
7. Paraphrase lines 142-148.
"Three words, dear Romeo, and good night indeed.
If that thy bent of love be honourable,
Thy purpose marriage, send me word to-morrow,
By one that I'll procure to come to thee,
Where and what time thou wilt perform the rite;
And all my fortunes at thy foot I'll lay
And follow thee, my lord, throughout the world."
Juliet tells Romeo to see her tomorrow if he plans on getting married, and if he does then Juliet will accept.
ACT 2 SCENE 3
1. Friar Laurence is introduced in a lengthy soliloquy in which he philosophies about nature and about mankind. Paraphrase his speech (lines 7-30).
The grey-ey'd morn smiles on the frowning night,
Chequering the eastern clouds with streaks of light;
And flecked darkness like a drunkard reels
From forth day's path and Titan's fiery wheels:
Non, ere the sun advance his burning eye,
The day to cheer and night's dank dew to dry,
I must up-fill this osier cage of ours
With baleful weeds and precious-juiced flowers.
The earth, that's nature's mother, is her tomb;
What is her burying gave, that is her womb:
And from her womb children of divers kind
We sucking on her natural bosom find;
Many for many virtues excellent,
None but for some, and yet all different.
O, mickle is the powerful grace that lies
In plants, herbs, stones, and their true qualities:
For naught so vile that on the earth doth live
But to the earth some special good doth give;
Nor aught so good but, strain'd from that fair use,
Revolts from true birth, stumbling on abuse:
Virtue itself turns vice, being misapplied;
And vice sometimes by action dignified.
Within the infant rind of this small flower
Poison hath residence, and medicine power:
For this, being smelt, with that part cheers each part;
Being tasted, slays all senses with the heart.
Two such opposed kings encamp them still
In man as well as herbs,--grace and rude will;
And where the worser is predominant,
Full soon the canker death eats up that plant.
"The wedding between these two will end the feud
The womb will be healed, and all will be better.
There will be a brand new start.
The past will be forgotten"
2. What does Romeo tell Friar Laurence, and what does he want from the Friar (lines 43-64)?
Romeo tells Friar that he is no longer in love with Rosaline, but now he is in love with Juliet, a Capulet. Romeo wants Friar to marry him and Juliet.
3. What is Friar Laurence’s reaction to hearing of Romeo’s new love (lines 65-80)?
Friars was shocked when he heard this and was reluctant, but this changed when he realized that the marriage could end the family feud.
4. Highlight lines 89-92. What reason does Friar Laurence give for agreeing to marry Romeo and Juliet?
Friar's reason for agreeing to the marriage was because he thinks that the marriage could end the hatred between the two families.
ACT 2 SCENE 4
1. This scene shows us more of the nurse’s character as she trades quips and puns with Mercutio. What malapropisms (an inappropriateness of speech resulting from the use of one word for another which resembles it) does the nurse use (line 115)?
The nurse says confidence, but she really means conference.
2. What message does Romeo urge the nurse to give to Juliet (lines 163-166)?
Romeo urges the nurse to tell Juliet to shrive with him that afternoon, and that they will get married after in Friar's cell.
ACT 2 SCENE 5
- Juliet is very impatient to hear news from Romeo (lines 1-17). What images does she use in her soliloquy to express this?
Juliet expresses her love by describing the swiftness of cupids wings, and the time it is taking, which is seeming long, talking about the suns beans driving back the shadows.2. The nurse knows Juliet is impatient, but she keeps putting her off. Why does the nurse do this?
The nurse does this because she just wanted to have a little fun with Juliet, knowing how anxious she is.
3. Why does the Nurse agree to help Juliet marry Romeo?
The nurse agrees to help Juliet because she knows that Romeo is very handsome, and athletic, and he is also a gentlemen.
Create a podcast for Act 2 using Garage Band based on one of the following options:
Introduce your topic, use music and sound effects to create mood and atmosphere. Save as iTunes mp3 and upload to your wiki.
1. Paraphrase then Podcast the "Balcony Scene" between Romeo and Juliet
2. Friar Laurence is introduced in a lengthy soliloquy in which he philosophies about nature and about mankind. Paraphrase and Podcast his speech
3. This scene shows us more of the nurse’s character as she trades quips and puns with Mercutio. Paraphrase and Podcast.
ACT 3 SCENE 1
1. Why do you think Tybalt approaches Mercutio and Benvolio and wants a “word” with one of them (line 36)?
I think Tybalt wants a word with them because he knows they are good friends of Romeo, so he does not like them, and wants to get Romeo mad so he would fight him.
2. Mercutio tries to provoke Tybalt to fight (lines 37-38). Why doesn’t Tybalt want to fight him (line 53)?
Tybalt doesn't want to fight him because he is not a Montague, so he had no meaning of fighting him.
3. After Tybalt insults Romeo, Romeo responds with lines 59-62. Explain his lines. What is the “reason” Romeo has for ignoring the insult?
Romeo ignored his insults because he does not want to trouble a Capulet, and knowing that the Capulet's won't accept him, or his family after this.
4. Highlight lines 65-69. Explain the meaning of the lines and the dramatic irony of the situation.
"I do protest I never injured thee,
But love thee better than thou canst devise
Till thou shalt know the reason of my love.
And so, good Capulet, which name I tender
As dearly as my own, be satisfied."
This was dramatic irony because Romeo actually did injure Tybalt mentally because Romeo was going to marry his cousin, Juliet, and Tybalt already had hatred for Romeo since the party.
5. Why does Romeo’s answer to Tybalt’s insults upset Mercutio? What does he think Romeo is doing (line 70)?
The insults upset Mercutio because he thought Romeo was giving up but Romeo just didn't want to stir up any trouble.
6. Romeo tries to stop Mercutio and Tybalt from fighting by reasoning with them (lines 82-85). Paraphrase what he says.
"Mercutio, if you must fight then fight with your hands.
Please do not fight.
Stop fighting on the streets.
Stop, Tybalt, and Mercutio!"
7. Even when he is dying, Mercutio continues to joke and to make puns. Explain the pun he makes in lines 92-99.
He asked Romeo why he had to be in the way, and now it is because of him that he died by screening him from Tybalt.
8. Highlight lines 102-103. Mercutio repeats the following line (106) three times and then adds the next line. Explain what he means:
“A plague O’ both your houses!
They have made worm’s meat of me.”
The lines mean that Mercutio is cursing both the families because it was their feud that made him die. Next, he says “They have made worm’s meat of me." which is a simile for dying.
9. What does Romeo mean when he says lines 119-120?
He means that he wants Tybalt dead since he killed Mercutio.
10. After Mercutio dies, why does Romeo decide to kill Tybalt instead of accepting Mercutio’s death as an unfortunate accident?
Romeo goes after Tybalt because he is so emotional that Mercutio died, and he is not yet mature enough to take what was happening.
11. Highlight line 132. What does Romeo mean?
"O, I am fortune's fool!"
Romeo means that he is a victim to fate. This is related to the Chorus with "star-crossed", also sealing Romeo's fate.
12. Highlight lines 176-177. What reasoning does Lady Capulet use in begging the Prince for vengeance for Tybalt’s death?
Lady Capulet's reason was that Romeo killed Tybalt, so he should be killed.
13. Highlight lines 180-183. What is Lord Montagues’ reasoning in his attempt to persuade the Prince not to kill Romeo for killing Tybalt?
Montague's reason was that Romeo wasn't trying to cause trouble, and it was Tybalt stirring things up, and Romeo was trying to stop the fight between Tybalt, and Mercutio.
14. What is the Prince’s decree, and what are the reasons he gives for making it (lines 182-185)?
The prince's decree was that Romeo is to be exiled. His reason was that Tybalt killed Mercutio, and the Prince feels that Tybalt deserved to die because he killed his cousin.
ACT 3 SCENE 2
1. In lines 37-68 the nurse confuses Juliet as she tells Juliet of the fight. What misconception does Juliet make?
Juliet thought that the nurse was talking about Romeo being dead because the nurse didn't tell her who was dead at this time, and she thought it was Romeo.
2. Highlight line 73. When Juliet receives news of Tybalt’s death, what is her first reaction?
"O God! Did Romeo's hand shed Tybalt's blood?"
Her first reaction was not even caring about Tybalt's death, but wondering about Romeo, and if Tybalt's blood was on Romeo's hand.
3. Highlight Juliet’s lines 90-92. When the nurse agrees with Juliet, Juliet has a different reaction to Romeo’s killing of Tybalt. Explain.
"Blister'd be thy tongue
For such a wish! he was not born to shame: "
Juliet did not care for Tybalt at all because she knows that he always misbehaves, but Romeo is always so sweet, and loving.
4. How does the scene end?
The scene ended with the nurse telling Juliet that she will find Romeo to comfort her.
ACT 3 SCENE 3
1. Highlight line 12. What is Romeo’s reaction when he learns that he has been banished?
Romeo felt that banishment was far worse then death because he could not be with Juliet.
2. From the beginning of the play, Romeo acts impulsively. In what way is he still impulsive in this scene (lines 102-108)?
Romeo tried to murder himself because he did not want to love without Juliet, but Friar stopped him.
3. Friar Laurence tells Romeo to count his blessings. What are they (line 135-140)?
That Romeo is lucky to be alive when Tybalt tried to kill him, that he found the women of his dreams, and got married, and that his punishment was exile.
4. Explain Friar Laurence’s plan (lines 146-154).
He wanted the nurse to go beg the prince, and gather the friends.
ACT 3 SCENE 5
Questions begin with Lady Capulet’s entrance, line 68.1. Lady Capulet misunderstands Juliet’s sadness, and Juliet does not want her to know what has happened between Romeo and Juliet. What does Juliet say about Tybalt and Romeo to keep the truth from her mother (lines 67-102)?
Juliet talks a lot of great things about Romeo, like how he is so nice, and kind. Before this, Juliet also pretends to feel sorry for Tybalt.
2. What is Juliet’s response when she is told the news that she is to marry Paris (lines 116-123)? How has she changed since Act 1?
She does not want to marry Paris now, that she loves Romeo, and has already married him. In Act 1, she gave Paris a chance to be her husband if she felt it was right.
3. What is her mother’s reaction to Juliet’s response (line 124 and lines 139-140)?
She dislikes Juliet's decision a lot, and told her to ask her father.
4. Highlight lines 190-194. What is Lord Capulet’s response to Juliet’s refusal to marry Paris?
"To answer "I'll not wed, I cannot love,
I am too young, I pray you pardon me!"
But, and you will not wed, you shall not house with me.
Look to it, think on it, I do not use to jest"
Lord Capulet's response refusal to marry Paris was that if she didn't she cannot live in her house, and he will kick her out, and she will have to live on the streets.
5. What does the Nurse advise Juliet to do (lines 212-225)? What is her reasoning?
The nurse advises Juliet to marry Paris because Paris has higher status then Romeo right now, and Paris is a nice, and fair man.
6. After the Nurse leaves and Juliet is alone, what does Juliet decide to do (lines 240-243)?
Juliet decides to go to Friar to find out his remedy, and if she couldn't, then she will die.
Act 3 Podcast
Podcast examples and quotes from Act 3 that illustrate each of the following themes:
- The brutal emotion of love.
- Behaviour controlled by the code of masculine honour
- The danger of acting on impulse
- Destiny and Fate
No music is required. Please introduce each topic then provide your examples and quotes. Upload to your wiki.ACT IV SCENE 1
1. Why is Friar Lawrence reluctant to marry Paris to Juliet?Friar is reluctant to marry Paris to Juliet because Friar knows that Juliet does not want to marry Paris, and Friar knows that Paris knows that Juliet does not want to have a wedding this early and Friar does not like that Paris does not care about what Juliet thinks.
2. How does Paris explain the sudden haste of the marriage plans?
Paris tells Friar it has to be in such a sudden haste because his father wanted the marriage faster.
3. What is ironic about the conversation between Juliet and Paris?
Paris explains that he wants the marriage earlier so he can stop her tears, but she would be happier alone.
4. If Friar Lawrence cannot help her, what does Juliet threaten to do?
To stab herself.
5. Why does Friar Lawrence think that Juliet will accept his plan?
Friar thinks that Juliet will accept his plan because she took the potion, and Friar knows that Juliet wants to be with Romeo so she had to take a risk.
6. Describe the friar’s plan for Juliet.
Friars plan was to make Juliet drink a potion that makes her seem dead, and everyone would think that she is dead, so when Juliet wakes up from her coffin she can escape and go to Romeo.
scene ii:
1. What does Juliet say that makes her father happy?Juliet tells her father that she will marry Paris, and told her father to forgive her sin of disobedience.
2. How does Capulet change the wedding plans? What implications does this have?
Capulet makes the wedding the very next day upon hearing this, and this caused Juliet to go to her room and get ready to use the potion.scene iii:
1. How does Juliet show her maturity and independence in this scene?Juliet shows maturity and independence in this scene by not telling her secret to anyone, and when everyone is gone, she will use the potion despite her fears.
2. If the potion does not work, what will Juliet do?
She will stab herself with a dagger if the potion does not work.
3. What are some of the fears Juliet has about the potion?
The fears Juliet had for the potion was that it might not work, and that Friar might've gave her poison.scene iv:
1. What is happening in this brief scene?
It is early Wednesday and the wedding was being prepared. Capulet hearing that Paris arrived, orders that Juliet be awakened and dressed for the wedding.scene v:
1. Describe the imagery Shakespeare uses in describing Juliet’s “death.”Shapespeare describes Juliet as deceased, her blood is settled, she's cold, and her joints are stiff, creating imagery of Juliet's death.
2. What does friar Lawrence say to comfort the Capulet family?
Friar says that Juliet is in a better place among the clouds, free of all the troubles she had.
3. What event are the Capulets preparing for now?
The funeral for Juliet.
ACT 5 SCENE 1
1. What premonition does Romeo have at the beginning of this scene (lines 1-11)?
He dreamt that Juliet saw him dad and she kissed him.
2. What news does Balthasar bring? How does this disrupt the Friar’s plan?
Balthasar tells Romeo that Juliet is dead, and disrupts Friar's plan because since Romeo thinks that Juliet is dead then Romeo can do something bad like kill himself.
3. Highlight line 24. Paraphrase. Why is this a brazen thing to say?
"Is it even so? Then I defy you, stars!"
If this is it, then I will deny my fate!
This was a brazen thing to say because he really doesn't deny his fate because what he would do would kill himself.
4. What does Romeo decide to do after he hears Balthasar’s story (lines 34-57)?
Romeo decides to go to Juliet's tomb and drink poison and die with her.
ACT 5 SCENE 2
1. What story does Friar John tell Friar Laurence as explanation as to why he could not deliver the letter to Romeo?
Friar John was cautious of disease, and he thought he had another day since the wedding was extended.
ACT 5 SCENE 3
1. Highlight lines 91-96. What does Romeo notice about Juliet? Explain the dramatic irony.
Death that hath sucked the honey of thy breath,
Hath had no power yet upon thy beauty.
Thou art not conquered. Beauty's yet
Is crimson in thy lips and in thy cheeks,
And death's pale flag is not advanced there.
The dramatic irony was that Romeo thinks Juliet is dead but she actually isn't, and Romeo notices that Juliet still has the appearance of a living person.
2. Highlight line 167. What does Juliet realize about the situation?
"Poison, I see, hath been his timeless end."
Juliet realizes that Romeo killed himself with poison because he thought that she was dead.
3. Highlight lines 169-170. Explain the lines.
"O churl. Drunk all, and left no friendly drop
To help me after? I will kiss thy lips."
When Juliet said these lines, she wanted to die with Romeo as well, and wanted to use Romeo's poison, but he used it all up, so she tried to kiss his lips hoping there was some on it but there was none.